Quantum Corporation
Media drive system with built-in controller for improved functionality

Abstract:

A media drive system (310) configured for use with a media drive (314) that performs read/write operations relative to a media cartridge (316) includes a system housing (312). The system housing (312) includes a housing body (312A) and a controller (350) that is secured to the housing body (312A). The controller (350) is configured to control functionality of the tape drive (314). More specifically, the inclusion of the controller (350) as part of the system housing (312) enables the media drive system (310) to achieve greatly enhanced functionality. For example, the media drive system (310) can greatly enhance the speed of various desired read/write operations performed within the media drive (314), especially when the requested files or file segments are not necessarily initially provided in sequential order on the media cartridge (316). The controller (350) can include one or both of a processor (352) and a memory system (354).